Explanation 6 · Example Usage

Classification of four tones

    The four tones in native Korean words are distinguished by
    their characteristics. Words pronounced with a level or even
    tone include 활 Hwal, while those with a rising tone
    include :돌 Dol. The departing tone can be found in words
    like 칼 Kal, and the checked or falling tone is represented in
    words such as 붇 But. Other words follow the same tonal
    classification system.


    Marking tones with dots

    In writing, these four tones can be visually distinguished by
    placing dots on the left side of the character.
    A single dot marks a departing tone. Two dots indicate a
    rising tone. If no dot is present, the word follows a level
    tone .
    The checked tone in native Korean words is not strictly
    fixed, but it is still marked with a dot when necessary. In
    Hanja pronunciation, the checked tone closely resembles the
    departing tone in its phonetic characteristics.




    Explanation of three sound harmony                            225